Sps Grow Out Patterns

Griff · Sep 24, 2016

As a relatively new reefer (3 yrs SW) who is looking to do an Sps dominated tank I'm having trouble deciding where to place my new corals. Not so much based on light. I know most need higher light. The issue is with how do these typically grow out. All I ever see online are frag pics or full tank shots. The issue with a full tank shot is no one lists what corals are what and with the frags there so small there is no way to know the growth pattern.

I'd appreciate if someone could list the different types of Sps with growth patterns or post a link that describes this.

Does it grow in a tight ball? Does it table?does it branch? Does it encrust?

Not looking for specific corals but something like genius usually do x and like x amount of light. Millis do x and like x amount of light.

Pics of examples are appreciated.

TherealplexiG · Sep 24, 2016

SPS don't need x and x amount of light but probably A to Z amount of light. The more you can blast the more you gonna be supplemental towards their need. But you can't just blast them with full power, increments come slow and gradual. If you are a little handy with electronics and inclined towards using leds, here is what you gotta have a look at.. http://www.reefll.com/

reefwiser · Sep 24, 2016

If you wish to see the grow out forms of SPS corals
Look at this Corals of the World
For how much light each species needs you can base it off where on the reef a coral is found.
Example: Acropora Japonica a tabling acropora is found in Shallow rocky foreshores. So it would require high light levels and strong flow.
The big problem for a new SPS keeper is knowing the actual coral species of a frag. The current naming of corals with fanciful name is "Blue thunder" SPS doesn't help you much.
By reading Corals of the World you will be able to learn about the different species of Acro's and where they are found on the reef.